Movie theaters are really offering up their A game to the ever-evolving list of amenities for cinemagoers.
Palm Coast’s Epic Theatre recently unveiled a $1 million renovation, adding luxury electric recliners, improved sound and lighting, and other enhancements to the movie-going experience.
The 14-screen theater at 1185 Central Ave. now offers its “Epic XTS” upgrade for select showings, which includes “a laser-projected, wall-to-wall screen … 24-channel audio system, and zero-gravity recliners with embedded shaker-seat audio for a fully immersive experience,” according to a press release from the city. Guests can also take advantage of Epic’s LUX Theatre, auditoriums with massaging recliners, charging ports and “a premium adults-only atmosphere designed for the ultimate comfort.”
Though they might not reach the level of, say, Reel Cinemas in Dubai, which features 270-degree screens and private butler service, there are other theaters in the Flagler/Volusia area that try to come close.
CMX Daytona Luxury 12’s CineBistro is not to be missed
1850 Legends Lane at One Daytona, Daytona Beach
CMX is probably the most elite cinematic experience available in the Daytona Beach area. Settle down into oversized reclining leather seats to enjoy Dolby sound, digital projection and CineBistro, CMX’s in-theater dining option with a menu ranging from lobster and baked goat cheese to a burger and fries, plus a full bar with beer, wine and mixed drinks.
The theater also offers state-of-the-art IMAX and surround sound. The screen used to project IMAX is much larger than those in conventional theaters, creating a sense of immersion, according to StudioBinder.
Though CMX filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in July, the company is allowed to continue operating its theaters under a court agreement.
Lounge it up at Daytona Beach’s Cinematique Theater
242 S. Beach St., Daytona Beach
The area’s only art house theater, Cinematique actually began as a nonprofit fine-arts cinema society that hosted regular screenings in the old Volusia Cinemas theater behind the Volusia Mall.
In addition to showing indie and foreign films you can’t see anywhere else, the venue goes beyond typical movie fare such as popcorn and candy with a menu that includes wine and craft beers, chicken wings, quiche, pretzel bites and more. Its auditorium offers lounge-style seating for up to 70 people, a 25-foot screen and a state-of-the-art sound system, according to a story published by The News-Journal.
Sink into ‘king-sized’ recliners at Regal Pavilion
5547 S. Williamson Blvd., Port Orange
This Regal Pavilion offers plush cushioned chairs in a stadium seating design and king-sized recliners. Its Regal Premium Experience is available in some auditoriums along with wall-to-wall screens, powerful sound and improved seating, according to the Regal Cinemas website.
Snacks run along the typical lines of popcorn, hot dogs and candy, as well as items like bacon cheese fries, burgers and chicken tenders; while beverages include fountain drinks as well as beer and wine; but don’t expect in-theater dining.
No frills, but extra bites at AMC Classic 12
1401 S. Dixie Freeway, New Smyrna Beach
No reclining seats or special screens here, but the theater has ramped up its concession game offering more than classic popcorn and hot dogs with items like curly fries, pretzel bites, mozzarella sticks and ice cream.
This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: Movie theaters in Daytona Beach, Palm Coast area raise their game with bougie amenities
Reporting by Colleen Michele Jones, Daytona Beach News-Journal / The Daytona Beach News-Journal
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